A Night on Osbert – a Boatel in Hackney, London

Sunday

Bored of expensive London hotels? Try spending a night on Osbert, an awesome canal-side ‘boatel’ that’s located in London’s very own Haggerston Riviera. Yep, that’s actually a real thing. The barge, which is docked in Gainsborough Wharf on Regent’s Canal (a 15-minute walk from Old Street and Angel underground stations), is a cool escape in the city, and a quirky little base if you’re looking to explore that rad London life out east .

The interiors are mega on point. The owners have hand-picked little pieces from their adventures around the world, from South African towels, to a little bar unit from somewhere up north (it was purchased on Ebay). There’s a great sound system (with bespoke playlists created before your stay, if you fancy it), a system to play films on the wall and a ukulele, should you wish to harass your boyfriend/friend with sub-par versions of Springsteen’s Dancing in the Dark. The king-size bed is hard to leave in the morning (but do, as you won’t want to miss those early-rising ducks cruising around on the water).

It’s self-catering, with tea and coffee supplied, but bring your own stash of ingredients if you’re looking for more than a cuppa. Handily, Deliveroo will get food to you here, so you can dine on buffalo chicken burgers or Thai salads from the comfort of the deck. Breakfast hampers can be pre-ordered if you’d like to knock up some eggs and bacon in the morning.

A stay here will leave you in a great place to explore the parts of London you always intend to visit but never do. Try Columbia Road Market for flowers and Broadway Market for food. Other options are listed in a handy little guide that is supplied – from antique shops to the best local boozers.